It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday June 29, 2015

This meme starts at Book Journey! Sheila is reading and reviewing a bit. I continue to pray for her family.


What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list.

I had to get a new fuel pump on my car at the beginning of the week. The rest of the week was steady busy.

I had a good reading/listening week. I finished two audios and two ebooks.  I posted three reviews  and the usual memes.

I got to visit early in the week but the internet was wonky the rest of the week. (It is giving me fits today as I try to prepare this post. We get a new internet tomorrow and I hope that helps.)
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday June 22, 2015.

• Audio Book Review: Diamond Rings Are Deadly Things: The Wedding Planner Mysteries, Book 1, by Rachelle J. Christensen ; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.25.

• Book Review: Murder At Rudhall Manor (A Humorous Murder Mystery) by Anya Wylde; Humorous, Mystery; my rating 4.25.

• Audible Book Review: Eighth Grave After Dark by Darynda Jones ; Fantasy, Paranormal; my rating 4.25.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway June 26, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 7/2/2015.

• Book Blitz with Giveaway! Alive at 5 by Linda Bond.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement June 28, 2015.

• Sharing Beyond Books #209 Comment Giveaway for 6/27/15; Open Worldwide. Ends 7/4/2015.

Finished Reading:
1. Audible/MP3

Extremes: A Retrieval Artist Novel
Written by: Kristine Kathryn Rusch
Narrated by: Jay Snyder
I really enjoyed this mystery.
I will get a review posted soon.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle

Judas the Apostle
by Van Mayhall Jr.
The later part of the book did pick up. 
I will post a review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

3. eBook/Kindle

A New Hope (Thunder Point series)
by Robyn Carr
This is a lovely romance.
I will post a review and giveaway on June 30
as part of Little Bird Publicity Tour.
Click on book title for full description.

4. Audible/MP3

Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca
Written by: Maria Goodavage
Narrated by: Neil Shah
This is a wonderful story!
I picked this up as a Daily Deal recently at Audible.
Publisher's Summary
The New York Times best-selling author of Soldier DogsTop Dog, Maria Goodavage takes listeners into the life of Lucca K458, a decorated and highly skilled military working dog. An extraordinary bond developed between Lucca and Marine Corps handler Chris Willingham, launching what became a legendary 400-mission career. A Specialized Search Dog, Lucca belongs to an elite group trained to work off-leash at long distances from her handler. She served alongside both Special Forces and regular infantry. She and Willingham became so sought-after that units scheduled missions around their availability.
The audiobook describes in gritty detail the team’s adventures on and off the battlefields, including tense, lifesaving explosives finds and firefights as well as the bravery of fellow handlers and dogs they served with. Ultimately, we see how the bond between Lucca and Willingham overcame the endless brutalities of war and the traumas this violence ignites. Here is a portrait of modern warfare with a heart-warming and inspiring conclusion that will touch dog lovers and the toughest military listeners.
©2014 Maria Goodavage and Christopher Elden Willingham (P)2014 Recorded Books

Currently reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

A Promise of Forever (A Tallgrass Novel Book 1)
by Marilyn Pappano
10% in - I am enjoying the beginning of this.
Review and Giveaway, through Hachette, to post July 2. 2015.
Sergeant First Class Avi Grant's return to Tallgrass, Oklahoma is a long-deferred wish come true. With her final tour in Afghanistan over, Avi can focus on her future-a job here at home and a family of her own. There's just one thing she has to do first: visit her beloved commanding officer's widow and share her grief. The last thing she expected was to feel an instant attraction to the woman's son. Too bad the sexy surgeon is impossible to ignore . . . and even harder to resist.
The sting of his parents' divorce still niggles at Ben Noble. So when a warm, funny, and beautiful young sergeant arrives, mourning his stepfather's loss as strongly as his mother does, Ben can't help but feel conflicted. If his parents taught him anything, it's that love doesn't last-especially with a career soldier. But try as he might to keep his distance, Ben begins to see that Avi-and the spark she brings to his life-is the stuff forever is made of. As Avi's leave ticks away, can Ben convince her to take a chance on forever with him?

2. Audible

The Lost Starship
Written by: Vaughn Heppner
Narrated by: David Stifel
I am becoming engaged by this with an hour in.
I received this audible from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox.
Publisher's Summary
Ten thousand years ago, a single alien super-ship survived a desperate battle. The vessel's dying crew set the AI on automatic to defend the smashed rubble of their planet. Legend has it the faithful ship continues to patrol the empty battlefield, obeying its last order throughout the lonely centuries.
In the here and now, Earth needs a miracle. Out of the Beyond invade the New Men, stronger, faster and smarter than the old. Their superior warships and advanced technology destroy every fleet sent to stop them. Their spies have infiltrated the government and traitors plague Earth's military.
Captain Maddox of Star Watch Intelligence wonders if the ancient legend could be true. Would such an old starship be able to face the technology of the New Men? On the run from killers, Maddox searches for a group of talented misfits. He seeks Keith Maker, a drunken ex-strikefighter ace, Doctor Dana Rich the clone thief stuck on a prison planet and Lieutenant Valerie Noonan, the only person to have faced the New Men in battle and survived to tell about it.
Maddox has to find a place hidden in the Beyond and bring back a ship no one can enter. If he fails, the New Men will replace the old. If he succeeds, humanity might just have a fighting chance...
©2014 Vaughn Heppner (P)2014 Vaughn Heppner

3. eBook/Kindle

Two Hearts: When I Said I Do, I Meant Forever
by James Richey
I received this title from iReads for review on July 9.
Jaxon Tagget is a cattle-rancher's son, born and raised on the Double T, just outside of Dillon, Montana. In love with his high-school sweetheart, Annie, Jaxon proposes on graduation night, presenting her with a wedding ring made from gold he mined himself. Annie accepts immediately, to the horror of her bitter, man-hating mother.
Jaxon's a wonderful husband, but the warnings of Annie's mother linger in the young bride's ears. And it doesn't help that women continue to fall all over the markedly handsome Jaxon.
Unaware of his wife's persistent doubts, Jaxon is struggling with his own troubles when he finds out his dad is sorely in need of money to save the ranch. But hope glimmers gold when he rediscovers the old mine on the Double T.
While Jaxon travels to verify the mine's productivity, Annie grows increasingly suspicious. Is Jaxon's absence what it seems, or does he have another, less faithful reason for his travels? When Annie sees a picture of the beautiful laboratory owner whom Jaxon is visiting, she's sure the only gold he's interested in is long, blond hair. Is Annie right, or will it be her doubts that forever sever their Two Hearts?

4. Print

If My People . . .: A 40-Day Prayer Guide for Our Nation
By: Jack Countryman
I enjoyed my third week in this daily reading. The quotes from our founding fathers are particularly interesting at this time.
If My People guides believers on a 40-day prayer journey in the spirit of 2 Chronicles 7:14.
Click on book title for full description.

June/1/15- I am still up to date on Bible reading and greatly enjoying the readings-- It seems my eyes are open to more details and meaning.. I am reading The One Year Bible again along with my husband and others from our church. I am also listening to the companion commentary online.

June:
6/30 A New Hope (Thunder Point series) by Robyn Carr

I posted three reviews last week but I may have five books for this week.
I am back to six books at NetGalley with a couple more requested.
I guess I will have to post a TBR eBook to next month.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

Mailbox Monday is a gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week and explore great book blogs.  This Meme started with Marcia at A Girl and Her Books (fka The Printed Page) and after a tour of hosts has returned to its permanent home at Mailbox Monday. Thanks to the ladies sharing hosting duties: Leslie of Under My Apple Tree, Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit and Vicki of I'd Rather Be at the Beach. Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists. 

I received one review title this week from NetGalley and requested some others that are not received yet.
I did purchase two eBooks that I want to read and I downloaded the free Audio pair from SYNC.
And -- as usual, I downloaded more free kindle titles to my library.

(Although I have gotten to a couple, I still have many author requests, old and new ones, to consider and reply to.)
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I received this title from Hachette for Review and Giveaway on July 2, 2015. 

A Promise of Forever (A Tallgrass Novel Book 1)
by Marilyn Pappano
(See info under Currently Reading above)

Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca
Written by: Maria Goodavage
(See info under Currently Reading above)

I picked these two titles at NetGalley:

Dark Horse
by Michelle Diener
"Some secrets carry the weight of the world."

A City Called Smoke: The Territory 2
by Justin Woolley
"The battle was only the beginning; the real danger is beyond the fence ..."

Won

None.

Purchased

These are two audio titles that I selected with my monthly Audible credits:


1. Seduction in Death: In Death, Book 13 
by J. D. Robb 
Time for another Eve Dallas mystery.

2. 14
by Peter Clines
This Sci Fi sounds good and has good reviews.

Free

Free Downloads from AudioFile SYNC 2015 for week Seven.

 
Monster 
by Walter Dean Myers 
Read by A Full Cast

Lord of the Flies
by William Golding
Read by William Golding

Over the past week I added 46 free Kindle titles to my library. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.

Sharing Beyond Books #209 Comment Giveaway for June 27, 2015

Hello again on Saturday Sunday night and Welcome to Sharing Beyond Books, SBB! (I couldn't get the internet to open last night and had to switch browsers today. I still am having slow response. My DH has ordered a system upgrade which will start next week. We'll see if that helps.)

Thanks to everyone who commented last week.
Seven commenters would try a book by a favorite author, especially if the story is in the genre they like. A couple of those might try the book through the library which is a good solution. Four people would always try a book from a favorite author. Linda has found that she enjoyed such a book. Four others would not try the book if it did not appeal to them. Fredamans feels they deserve a chance.

~~~~

The regular Winner from SBB #208 comments is: #3 Sue who can make a GC choice if international or book choice from the Updated ARC/Review titles or (not yet updated) Love titles - all linked near the end of the post. I'm hoping to update the book choices this week. Please let me know your choice by completing the (new) WINNER FORM.

WEEK #209 (One Question.)

Elizabeth asks: Q1 What is your dream vacation location??

A: We get to travel a bit and we enjoy variety. We did one Viking River Cruise that was wonderful and I would love to do another. However, my husband and I have often talked about a long railway sightseeing trip. They are just too expensive. So more realistically it would be lovely to set up a month travel in our motorcoach. A month is hard for me but easier now with internet options.

Image found at Vacations by Rail.

Thanks to those who are sending in Questions. DON'T BE SHY! Surely everyone has a Q or two you'd like to ask. Input suggestions in this Suggested Question Form. At the end of each month I draw from the suggestions I used during the month and that person will get a book choice or GC. I thank everyone for submitting questions. Thanks for sending in questions! The supply of questions is dwindling so share some if  you think of any -- even if they are duplicates I'll weed through or try to modify to use.

The four contributors in June were: Becky, nrlymrtl, bn100 and Elizabeth. Random.org picked 1 so Becky gets to pick a book.

Your turn to share:
Elizabeth asks: Q1 What is your dream vacation location??

SBB Comment Winners can choose a selection from the  Valentine and "Love" books or the February 2015 Newly Updated ARC/Review List. (My daughter pulled several of the Christmas titles to give with gift bags we made up for the nursing homes. One of these days I will get together a new box of Christmas titles.)

SBB Rules:
a) Must be a follower.
b) Share a comment on either of the two questions above.
Open internationally and an international winner may get a smaller book or a $5.00 GC if I decide the mailing is too much.
I will pick a Comment winner from all comments made through Saturday July 4, 2015 at 5 PM  central.

Sunday Words of Encouragment June 28, 2015

We had a lovely Sunday School visit with our Brother E from Haiti. He spoke in stumbling English (since none of us could translate his French or Creole) and shared his thanks for us in a similar fashion as Paul gave thanks to the believers in Philippians 1:3-11. “E” was not in prison but he was imprisoned by poverty and a defeated spirit. As “E” noted, it is amazing that “E” came to our community and met our Sunday School teacher at church and on the street. In other words, the hand of God put us together. There are times we question “why” we have troubles and struggle, then, at a future time it becomes clear. God knows who you will become and He is faithful if we will only submit to God’s plan.

“E” was like Jonah - running from a mission because he didn’t have the resources to teach in an area controlled by voodoo worshipers. He came to America hoping only for work so he could send money home to his own family. Instead, God provided the backing, prayer and financial, to return and claim the area for Christ!

“E” is certain that even God’s light can shine through darkness of voodoo worship. The land that has been purchased was once used for voodoo worship but, as “E” acknowledged, God owns all the land (Psalm 123) and the work is protected by God’s hand (Psalm 91). The plan is to set up a building and start teaching 100 children (Proverbs 22:6) in September! Brother “E” prays for wisdom, prayer support and generous giving that rewards the giver. Corinthians Proverb 19:17. He closed saying that he reminds himself daily to be like Joshua: Don’t be discouraged.

We then had a very moving praise, worship and healing prayer time. This led to Pastor’s Sermon titled: God’s Grace Changes Things. Pastor’s message came from Haggai 2:1-9. Haggai admonished the people to stop looking at the past, at “better days.” God had restored to them freedoms and help to rebuild the temple even though it did not match it’s former glory. But instead of praising God for the restoration the people grumbled.  God wants us to keep our focus on the positive promises and blessings. Haggai reminded the people to ‘be strong.... Do not fear’ (v4-5). Faith is a walk, it is not a sit. Any mistakes we make, as humans, are only temporary. Don’t give up for the best is yet to come. God will fill His house with greater glory (v9).

Interestingly this song seems to go with both messages:

God is stronger than the darkness and His glory is forever!

Verses for Today:
Haggai 2:6-9
6 “This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘In a little while I will once more shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. 7 I will shake all nations, and what is desired by all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the Lord Almighty. 8 ‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the Lord Almighty. 9 ‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘And in this place I will grant peace,’ declares the Lord Almighty.”


I am so glad that God's light does shine in the darkness and that we are victorious through His Grace. God has a plan that we can rely on even though we do not understand His ways.

Book Blitz with Giveaway! Alive at 5 by Linda Bond

Come On A Thrilling Adventure Vacation in Alive at 5 by Linda Bond, Now On Sale for 99 cents!!!

Now on SALE! Read the book that is described as a mix of James Bond and Romancing the Stone! Spend part of your summer vacation on a adventure with a TV news reporter and a thrill-seeking undercover cop while they search for a murderer and face their greatest adventure of all, love.

Interested where the idea for Alive at 5 came from? Check out Linda’s blog post here!

Not only is ALIVE AT 5 having a sale, but it also got a new cover! Check it out below!

Don’t forget to enter to win a $25 gift card from Amazon or Barnes and Noble - See Rafflecopter below.

About Alive At 5  

Description: TV news reporter Samantha Steele is one panic attack away from losing her job. Future on the line and cameraman in tow, she follows her mentor on an exhilarating adventure vacation. When he dies while skydiving, her investigative instincts scream “murdered”, and lead her to gorgeous thrill-seeker Zack Hunter. Zack is an undercover police officer investigating his uncle’s death through the same adventure vacation company. Samantha is a thorn in his side the moment they meet. Not only is she investigating the same case, but the emotionally wounded loner doesn’t want another partner, especially one whose goal is to splash evidence all over the evening news. But Samantha’s persistence is quite a turn-on, and Zack’s overpowering desire makes it harder for him to push her away. When the killer turns his attention to Zack, Samantha might be the only one who can save him, forcing the anxiety-riddled correspondent to finally face her greatest fear.


Check out the one of kind book trailer for Alive at 5 here!

Fresh Fiction had this to say about ALIVE AT 5:

"What a Treat: Great Characters, a Clever Plot, and Extreme Adventures!"

“ALIVE AT 5 is extremely well written, fast paced, and what a joy it was to experience, even vicariously, skydiving, scuba diving, and swimming with sharks! Ms. Bond has crafted a superior romantic suspense, and Sam, Zach, and Sam's cameraman George make such a fine team, I dare hope it's the beginning of a series! No chance of dozing off while reading ALIVE AT 5!”

On Sale At These E-Retailers:

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks

About the Author:

Linda Bond is an Emmy award winning journalist by day and an author of romantic adventures by night. She’s also the mother of five, four athletes and an adopted son from Cuba. She has a passion for world travel, classic movies, and alpha males. Linda currently lives in Florida, where the sun always shines and the day begins with endless possibilities. You can become a Bond girl and share in her continuing adventures at www.lindabond.com

You can also visit her online at the following places:

Website  |  Twitter  |  Facebook  |  Goodreads  |  YouTube |  Google+  |  Pintrest

EXCERPT:

    “I don’t really expect you to help me, just give me a cover.”
    He groaned in a blast of disbelief. The irony of this situation was not lost on him. If he wanted to remain undercover for real, he had to provide her with a pretend cover. The woman did have balls, he had to admit. He forced a smile. “And if I don’t go along with your plan?”
    “I walk right over to my detective friend and tell him my suspicions.” She stared boldly his way, hands on hips, legs slightly apart. “I’ll tell him that Maxwell was killed and you know all about it. That you’re here investigating the other suspicious deaths. I don’t know what agency you’re working for, but Stuart could find out in less than ten minutes, and I imagine you don’t want to blow your cover just yet. Am I right?”
    His jaw dropped. “Blackmail? Really? Do you know the penalty for that if I really am a cop?”
    She snorted. “Extortion, actually. Well?”
    He snapped his jaw shut. He knew very well what would happen if the adventure vacation company knew his real identity, and what his bosses would do if they found out he was still investigating this case after they’d specifically pulled him off it.
    Wow. She had him. He was impressed, and a little turned on. He ground his teeth. He would agree to her plan, only because he had no choice. He was determined to find and nail the son of a bitch who had killed his uncle.
    “All right, fine,” he reluctantly said.
    She might lose her job if she didn’t come back with her investigative story. But he would definitely lose his job if she exposed his undercover activities and his family’s private life on the news. So he would have to keep the nosy reporter under his thumb and under his control.
    One way or another.

Linda Bond has a new release coming out soon called Cuba Undercover!
Check out the exclusive book trailer here!

GIVEAWAY:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway June 26, 2015

Happy Friday - I'm happy it's Friday and I hope you are. My car was fixed on Monday with a replaced fuel pump and a few tweaks. Not cheap but less expensive than ongoing car payments. Work has been steadily plugging along. 
I did get the new picture of books and a list posted for today. 
Just to bring everyone up to date - I have books picked for mailing Friday and I hope to get all gift cards/PayPals sent on Saturday except for those who are banking their wins.

TO ENTER FRIDAY PICK:

US Entrants: Leave a comment and tell me WHICH BOOK you would like to get from the Friday Pick lists.
INTERNATIONAL: Leave a comment indicating "Gift Card" (see further comments near the end of the post.)

CUT OFF TIME IS THURSDAY NIGHTS AT 9:00 PM CENTRAL so I do not have to stay up to late to do the winner post! I will randomly pick two winners to announce Friday mornings with the next Pick post.

Thank you to all who entered the June 19 Pick. There were no automatic wins this week.  Automatic wins are those who requested the book four times without other people asking for that book during those weeks. There were two titles blocked.

CONGRATULATIONS
to Random.org picked Winners from June 19 Pick:
Marjorie gets a GC

LindaK gets Paradise Bay

All winners please fill in the Winner's Acceptance Form or email me to confirm your win, send your snail mail address information and let me know if you would like bookmarks - sensual, sexy or sweet bookmarks. {The form is new because Google changed their forms and the old one wasn't letting me print out the responses.}

I'm looking forward to diving and relaxing in some good books! How about you?

Image found at Cleveland.com

New Book Group #58 June 26, 2015
-- A few summer titles, a few mysteries, a few historicals...

PAIRS:
JoAnn Ross:Impulse and Far Harbor\
Barbara Bretton: One and Only and Shore Lights
SINGLES:
Honeymoon by James Patterson
Sam's Letters to Jennifer by James Patterson Audio Cassette Tapes
Marriage by the Book by Joan Johnston (slight binding damage)
Summer Lovin', American Romance - Marin Thomas, Laura Marie Altom and Ann Roth
Hot Pursuit - Karen Rose, Annie Solomon and Carla Cassidy
Murders in the Mist by Willard Scott
Murder on the Atlantic by Steve Allen
Love Me Tommow by Rosanne Bittner (spine creasing)
The Reiver's Woman by Catherine Creel
Never Romance a Rake by Liz Carlyle
Patriot Dreams by Barbara Michaels
Sevant, The Awakening by L.L. Foster


New Book Group #57 May 1, 2015
(I'll finish the list with authors on Saturday 5/2/15)

PAIRS:
Nora Roberts: The Heart of Devin MacKade and the Pride of Jared MacKade
SINGLES:
A Little Better Bit Wild by Victoria Dahl
Veil of Night by Lydia Joyce
The Ruthless Greek's Virgin Princess by Trish Morey
Special Agent by Candice DeLong
Dead in The Water by Stuart Woods - Cassette Tapes
Rally Fever by Crea Jones

New Book Group #56 March 20, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)

PAIRS:
Catherine Lanigan: Tender Malice and Elusive Love (spine creases)
SINGLES:
Madison Avenue Marriage (Silhouette Desire #129) by Cassandra Bishop
The Sweetheart Dance by Patti Ann Colt
Where is He Now? by Jennifer Greene
Raintree Haunted by Linda Winstead Jones (spine creases)
Dear John by Nicholas Sparks


New Book Group #55 February 5, 2015
(I'll try to get the rest linked another day.)

SINGLES:
If I Had You by Deborah Bedford
Dark Possession by Christine Feehan
The Man Who Ate the 747 by Ben Sherwood
Paradise Bay by James Michael Pratt
Exclusive Anthology by Fiona Hood-Stewart, Sharon Kendrick and Jackie Braun


New Book Group #54 December 26, 2014

SINGLES:
Ender’s Shadow by Orson Scott Card - Tape Cassettes



BOX 4 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 47-53)

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
The Hidden Truth of Cytech's Randall Forty byVickie Kennedy
First to Fight Anthology
Jezebel by Katherine Sutcliff
The Awakening and Selected Short Stories by Kate Chopin
Maybe This Time by Victoria Barrett
The Commander by Kate Bridges
The Cinderella Plan by Margaret Daley
The Mr. & Mrs. Happy Handbook by Steve Doocy
A Garden of Friends by Penny Pierce Rose
Richard Paul Evans PAIR: The Looking Glass and The Carousel
Duo Book: Yesterday's Memories by Tara Taylor Quinn and Amanda Stevens
Undateable by Ellen Rakieten & Anne Coyle
Sleeping with Ward Cleaver by Jenny Gardiner


BOX 3 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 39- 47)

Shetland Summer by Janet Lynnford
Breakfast in Bed by Sandra Brown - Audio Cassette Tapes (link is for mass media version)
Cattle Rancher, Secret Son by Margaret Way
Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith
Trouble Becomes Her by Laura Van Wormer
Remember Me by Mary Higgins Clark
A Lady of Consequence by Mary Nichols
Sweet Talking Man by Betina Krain
Illegal Possession by Kay Hooper


BOX 2 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 24- 38)

Thinner by Stephen King
Foundation (Foundation Novels) by Isaac Asimov
Magic: The Gathering Distant Planes, An Anthology
The Willful Widow by Valerie King (spine wear)
Dancing on Snowflakes by Jane Bonander
An Honorable Man by Rosemary Rogers (spine creases)
A Courtesans Guide to Getting Your Man by Susan Donovan and Celeste Bradley -- NOTE This book has dog bite damage; it is missing half back cover and the edges of pages in the back third of the book... it does not effect the text but I will understand if no one wants this one
Tara Taylor Quinn: Father: Unknown and McGillus v.Wright
The Trailsman: Texas Lead Slingers by Jon Sharpe
Anthology: Something Borrowed, Something Blue - this book has spine creases and minor water damage...I thought I had read it and liked it but now I realize it was another anthology I read with Elaine Barbier.


BOX #1 2015 (reboxed from Boxes 1- 23)

Circle of Stars by Anna Lee Waldo
Alien Chronicles - The Crimson Claw by Deborah Chester
Ghost Writer (Shivers #3) by M.D. Spenser
Death Angel by Linda Howard

If you saw the pictures posted of my bookshelves and boxes you know I do have lots of books! And that doesn't include the other eight or so boxes at my office!! And more books as I find deals too good to pass up! I am sharing my book bounty by these Friday Pick Giveaways.

I started Friday Pick on November 27, 2009 and in five+ years I have posted 54 groups of 16 (864) books to find new homes! (as of February 6, 2015).

I am happy to say that so far about 834+ books have found new homes! YAY. I have to update my print out to check the exact number sent out - a few were never claimed. I periodically update the lists - deleting those won. You can still go to the Friday Pick list link to see older posts and the older lists book pictures if you want!

Note rules here regarding international entries.

Because postage to overseas can be prohibitive I am willing to give a $5.00 book certificate to international winners - Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Borders, ARe, TWRP, ClassAct Books, eTreasures, Desert Breeze, etc....you tell me where and I'll set it up. So for my overseas visitors your comment may indicate a smaller book and I'll check postage or note your choice of gift card.

I learned that The Book Depository does not ship to everywhere. The postage for some of the books to far away places runs between $7.00 and $10.00 and up. Since I would award $5.00 for The Book Depository to an international winner, as an alternative you may choose a smaller book and we will hope the postage will not exceed $6.00. If the postage is more, or if you want to pick a larger book and you are willing to pay any extra postage beyond the $6.00 I will work with you on that. This may not make a difference to many but if it helps one or two of you to give one of my books a home that will make me happy too. :o)

Repeating this helpful blog tip: You can right click on a link and you will be given the choice to open the link in a new window or tab so you do not navigate away from the screen you are on!! I use this all the time!

Audible Book Review: Eighth Grave After Dark by Darynda Jones

This eighth episode adds new twists to this engaging series.
Eighth Grave After Dark
By Darynda Jones
Narrated By Lorelei King

Length: 9 hrs
Series: Charley Davidson, Book 8
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:05-19-15
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
With 12 hellhounds after her, pregnant Charley Davidson takes refuge at the only place she thinks they can't get to her: the grounds of an abandoned convent. But after months of being cooped up there, Charley is ready to pop. Both metaphorically and literally, since she is now roughly the size of a beached whale. Fortunately a new case has captured her attention, one that involves a murder on the very grounds the team has taken shelter upon. A decades-old murder of the newly vowed nun she keeps seeing in the shadows is almost enough to pull her out of her doldrums.
Charley's been forbidden to step foot off the sacred grounds. While the angry hellhounds can't traverse the consecrated soil, they can lurk just beyond its borders. They have the entire team on edge, especially Reyes. And if Charley didn't know better, she would swear Reyes is getting sick. He grows hotter with every moment that passes, his heat scorching across her skin every time he's near, but naturally he swears he's fine. Charley is about to get the surprise of her crazy, mixed-up, supernatural life.
©2015 Darynda Jones (P)2015 Macmillan Audio

Review:
Charley, the grim reaper, and Reyes, the son of Satan, and friends are settled - or more like ‘locked’ in - at an abandoned convent where they believe the 12 hellhounds can’t venture. Charley is glad to have the diversion and excitement of helping the wedding plans for Uncle Bob and her assistant, best friend, Cookie. Everyone is a bit on edge looking for activity. Charley is happy to get a last minute call for help from her FBI friend and even Cookie has her own reasons to delay her honeymoon.

Charley doesn’t realize at first what is happening to Reyes, she just knows he is scorching hot - even more than usual. She is also concerned when she realizes he keeps sneaking off to meet with her ghostly investigator, 13 year old Angel.

Charley is dealing with other problems as her step-mother, Denise, who is far from her favorite person, is trying to build a new relationship so she can be part of little ‘beep’s life. Charley’s old house ghost, Mr. Wong, has moved into the convent and there are ghosts multiplying on the lawn while Charley’s dead father slips in to tell her there are spies in the household.

Charley is plenty restless. Since Reyes is keeping secrets she decides to keep her own secrets and ‘slip out’ to interview a kidnapper. That causes friction but things really heat up when Charley races out of the convent thinking that Cookie and Amber are in danger. Charley runs into some old friends who rein her back to the convent when they realize there is trouble at home.

This episode is a little quieter at first as the story focuses on the wedding and the birth of 'beep'. There is the usual snappy humor is full force but at times I wondered where the story was going. Finally the action picks up and I liked the twists and surprises when the enemies and allies face off. The ending takes an unexpected leap to leave us hanging till book nine.

Audio Notes: After eight listens there is not much more to say about the wonderfully entertaining narration by Lorelei King. She makes it an easy, enjoyable listening experience.

I picked this up at Audible with one of my monthly credits. This is part of my audio challenge.

Book Review: Murder At Rudhall Manor (A Humorous Murder Mystery) by Anya Wylde

This story tells the madcap crazy antics of Miss Lucy Anne Trotter trying to prove she is not a murderer or thief.

Murder At Rudhall Manor (A Humorous Murder Mystery)
by Anya Wylde

• File Size: 904 KB
• Print Length: 224 pages
• Publication Date: June 15, 2014
• ASIN: B00L1HYMJQ

Genre: Humor, Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

A murder and a theft have been committed at Rudhall Manor. A box of jewels has vanished and Lord Sedley, a lusty old aristocrat, has been stabbed six times in the chest.
It is all very mysterious, and the Sedley family and the servants have decided that Miss Lucy Anne Trotter, a recently employed governess, is to blame for the unfortunate events.
The legendary and wickedly handsome Marquis, Lord William Adair, learns of the matter and decides to uncover the truth.
Lucy, however, has little faith in blue blooded creatures—even if they possess dashing good looks— and, accompanied by two naughty pugs and a moody raven, decides to investigate and unmask the killer herself.
But the hunt for the killer turns out to be far more complicated than she anticipates—what with snooty servants, warts in odd places, mixed up love affairs, agitated chickens and dreadful disguises ruining her plans.
Soon she begins to wonder if, for once, she is in over her head….

Review:
Lucy Anne’s headmistress at the orphanage knows that Lucy has a big heart and has been a diligent student. She would make a good addition to the orphanage staff, even if her exuberant behavior sometimes gets the best of her. But Lucy was insistent on taking a position as a governess for two young wards of an aristocratic Lord. Lucy didn’t realize the type of household she was getting into. There was the stingy, lusty master whom Lucy rebuked, the bitter, demanding wife, an older son who has a menagerie of animals, another son who is out incurring debt, a snippy daughter who wants a season in London and Lucy’s two lively charges, a niece and nephew. Oh - and let's not forget the ghost of Aunt Sedley!

Lucy, as the newest employee, is the easiest suspect for a jewel theft that occurs the same day that Lord Sedley is murdered. The family and the servants are quick to presume her guilt even though they are more concerned about the missing jewelry than the murder.

The eccentric, legendary Lord Adair floats into town and is asked to investigate the crimes. Lucy has to crawl through the crowd to see him face to face. He is beautiful, just as the legends say, and although Lucy appreciates his handsome features she doesn’t trust him, as an aristocrat, to prove the innocence of a servant such as herself. Lucy determines that she will do whatever it takes to uncover the truth herself.

It is clear from the outset that this story is not your usual conservative (or even racy) regency historical. The characters are quirky enough, but the household becomes even more zany with a baboon, pug puppies, a raven that likes to sit on Lucy’s bonnet and more. Lucy’s attempts at spying are absolutely outrageous, including a misguided, ridiculous disguise and a hunt in the hen house. The whole effect is very quickly seen as a madcap romp. There were a few scattered clues to the identity of the murderer but I didn’t get it until just before it was revealed.

If you are a reader looking for a sexy historical romance - look elsewhere. But if you want to take a break from serious reading and enjoy laughter and an entertaining mystery, do try this cute story - it’s a hoot! I would be glad to read more of Miss Lucy's madcap adventures.

I received this from the author for an honest review. Thank you Anya for a very fun interlude.

Audio Book Review: Diamond Rings Are Deadly Things: The Wedding Planner Mysteries, Book 1, by Rachelle J. Christensen,

This is a fast, fun cozy mystery. 
Diamond Rings Are Deadly Things: The Wedding Planner Mysteries, Book 1
Written by: Rachelle J. Christensen
Narrated by: Kirsten Potter

Length: 9 hrs and 29 mins
Series: Wedding Planner Mysteries, Book 1
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:03-05-15
Publisher: Deseret Book Company
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Adrielle Pyper knows how to plan a wedding, and she is especially good at pleasing bridezillas. But when her biggest client and best friend is murdered just three days before the wedding, Adri's world falls apart. She moves to the resort town of Sun Valley, Idaho, and starts from scratch. Thanks to Adri's impeccable taste and unique style, she lands two celebrity clients, and her business seems headed for success - that is until someone vandalizes the specialty wedding dresses she imported from overseas. The race is on to uncover a secret hidden within the yards of satin and lace before Adri becomes the next victim.
With a delightful blend of mystery, toe-curling kisses, humor, and spine-tingling thrills, Diamond Rings Are Deadly Things is a romantic suspense novel that will keep you listening long into the night.
©2014 Rachelle Christensen (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
Adrielle is a wedding planner who moved to Sun Valley, Idaho after a trauma in her big city career. She is slowly building her new business, planning two important society weddings, one with a lovely bride and the other with a bridezilla ‘starlet’ diva. The brides have an interesting connection as the sweet bride is the new fiancé of the wealthy, handsome ex of the diva.

Adri and her best friend, Lorea, are expanding their business by including wedding dresses in their inventory. The first shipment of dresses arrives with one dress missing and one with hem damage. As the girls scramble to keep the plans moving for their brides, Adri has to cope with vandalized dresses, stolen diamonds and threatening pictures.

Meanwhile Lorea is encouraging Adri to take a chance on a little bit of romance. Even as Adri has a couple of dates with a shy friend, she is eyeing a gorgeous hunk on the jog trail and another gorgeous man who shows interest but has a distaste for weddings.

The story is lively and fun as Adri hides facts from the police to save her dresses, soothes competing brides and juggles potential beaus. The characters are real and likable - except for Bridezilla of course. The writing is straightforward and moves at a good easy pace. The mystery has twists that kept me guessing and l liked the light romance elements as well. I also enjoyed the bridal tips that start each chapter. I recommend this to readers who love a fun, cozy mystery and those who enjoy wedding elements.

Audio Notes: Kirsten Potter does an okay job narrating the story. Once I got accustomed to her voice, I decided it fit well for the primary characters and she adds enough inflection for the other voices to keep them distinct. I enjoyed the audio which made this a quick enjoyable “read.”

I received this audio title through Audiobook Jukebox for an honest review. This qualifies for my 2015 Audiobook challenge.

It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday June 22, 2015

This meme starts at Book Journey! I hope Sheila is doing better. I continue to pray for all of her family.


What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list.

I had a full work week but not overly stressful. The only glitch this week was my car not starting on Saturday. We'll get it to our repair shop on Monday to find out what is wrong.

I had a strong reading/listening week. I finished three books and am nearly done a fourth (audio).  I only posted two reviews  too and the usual memes. :-)

I got to visit a bit two nights this week which was nice.
Thanks as always to all the nice people who visit me.

These were last week's posts:

• It's Monday! What are You Reading? Plus Mailbox Monday June 15, 2015.

• Book Review: Outlaw Trigger (Epic Book 2) by Lee Stephen; Military Sci FI; my rating 4.5. 

• Book Review: The Ark by Laura Liddell Nolen; Sci Fi; my rating 4.25.

• Martha's Bookshelf***Friday Pick Giveaway June 19, 2015. Open Worldwide. Ends 6/25/2015.

• Book Review: Fortune's Detour: Prequel of The Deka Series by Abigail Schwaig; Sci Fi; my rating 4.0.

• Sharing Beyond Books #208 Comment Giveaway 6/20/15; Open Worldwide. Ends 6/27/2015.

• Sunday Words of Encouragement June 21, 2015.

Finished Reading:
1. eBook/Kindle

The Ark
by Laura Liddell Nolen
This was an interesting sci fi. The review is linked above.
Click on book title for full description.

2. eBook/Kindle

Murder At Rudhall Manor (A Humorous Murder Mystery)
by Anya Wylde
Best description is: madcap crazy!
I will post the review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

3. Audible/MP3

Eighth Grave After Dark
By Darynda Jones
Narrated By Lorelei King
I enjoyed this fairly quick listen and will review this week.
Click on book title for full description.

Currently reading:

1. Audible/MP3

Extremes: A Retrieval Artist Novel
Written by: Kristine Kathryn Rusch
Narrated by: Jay Snyder
There is good suspense in this sci fi thriller.
I am already 90% complete.
I selected this from my own Audible Library.
Publisher's Summary
His name: Miles Flint. His occupation: Retrieval Artist. His job: find the Disappeared - outlaws on the run, wanted for crimes against alien cultures. The catch: Flint isn't working on the side of the law anymore.
One simple mistake and a Disappeared could end up dead. But this time, the death of an ailing Retrieval Artist has caught Flint's attention. He suspects it was foul play, not a viral infection. Equally suspicious is a young woman's sudden demise during the Moon's prestigious Extreme Marathon. As Flint investigates, he finds an ominous connection. Both deaths lead back to a scientist - a scientist who is now one of the Disappeared.
Listen to more in the Retrieval Artist series.
©2003 White Mist Mountain, Inc.; (P)2008 Audible, Inc.

2. eBook/Kindle

Judas the Apostle
by Van Mayhall Jr.
This has some interesting potential but has started a bit slowly. I received this through NetGalley.
Ancient language expert Dr. Clotile Lejeune is happily living a quiet life in Seattle when her world is profoundly shaken. After she learns that her estranged father has been murdered, Cloe must travel with her soldier son, J. E., back to her Louisiana hometown to unlock the mysteries of a two-thousand-year-old oil jar her father has left her—a jar inscribed with the name Judas Iscariot. Anxious to find her father’s killer and dispel her own personal demons, Cloe has no idea that what she is about to uncover has the potential to set the international religious community on fire.

With the help of a mysterious cleric, her son, and a letter from her father, Cloe soon realizes the African oil jar her father unearthed during the war may be the most important relic discovered in centuries. But it is only the beginning. Across the globe, a billionaire arms merchant is leaving a trail of bodies in his wake in his pursuit of the jar and its contents.

In this biblical thriller, the race for answers takes a language professor on a dangerous quest across three continents in order to discover the identity of Judas Iscariot. Now only time will tell if Cloe can find out what the past is reaching out to tell her—before it is too late.

3. eBook/Kindle

A New Hope (Thunder Point series)
by Robyn Carr
I am looking forward to stating this.
I will post a review and giveaway on June 30
as part of Little Bird Publicity Tour.
Starting over is never easy, but in Thunder Point, where newcomers are welcome and friends become family, it's possible to find yourself again. #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr takes us on a moving and rewarding journey as a young woman finds new hope.

After losing her child, Ginger Dysart was lost in grief. But since moving to Thunder Point, a small town on the Oregon coast, Ginger is finally moving forward. Her job at the flower shop is peaceful and fulfilling, and she's excited to be assisting with the Lacoumette wedding.

In spite of her lasting heartache, Ginger is swept up in the pleasure of the occasion. But the beauty of the Lacoumette farm and the joy of the gregarious family are ruined by an unfortunate encounter with the bride's brother, Matt. Struggling with painful memories of his own, Matt makes a drunken spectacle of himself when he tries to make a pass at Ginger, forcing her to flee the scene in embarrassment.

But when Matt shows up at the flower shop determined to make amends, what started out as a humiliating first meeting blossoms into something much deeper than either of them expected. Everyone around them worries that Ginger will end up with a broken heart yet again. But if Ginger has the courage to embrace the future, and if Matt can finally learn to let go of the past, there may still be hope for a happy ending.

4. Print

If My People . . .: A 40-Day Prayer Guide for Our Nation
By: Jack Countryman
Enjoyed my second week in this daily reading.
If My People guides believers on a 40-day prayer journey in the spirit of 2 Chronicles 7:14.
"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
In the days prior to the election, this prayer booklet guides believers through 40 days of prayer, plus providing seven prayers from past presidents, inspired during some of our country's darkest days.

June/1/15- I am still up to date on Bible reading and greatly enjoying the readings-- It seems my eyes are open to more details and meaning.. I am reading The One Year Bible again along with my husband and others from our church. I am also listening to the companion commentary online.

June:
6/30 A New Hope (Thunder Point series) by Robyn Carr

I posted three reviews last week so I have three up for this week.
I am back to four books at NetGalley with a couple more requested.
I did get to two TBR audios and I still hope to get to at least one TBR eBook next week this month.

Welcome to Mailbox Monday.

Mailbox Monday is a gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week and explore great book blogs.  This Meme started with Marcia at A Girl and Her Books (fka The Printed Page) and after a tour of hosts has returned to its permanent home at Mailbox Monday. Thanks to the ladies sharing hosting duties: Leslie of Under My Apple Tree, Serena of Savvy Verse & Wit and Vicki of I'd Rather Be at the Beach. Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists. 

I received one review title this week from NetGalley and requested some others that are not received yet.
I did purchase two eBooks that I want to read and I downloaded the free Audio pair from SYNC.
And -- as usual, I downloaded more free kindle titles to my library.

(Although I have gotten to a couple, I still have many author requests, old and new ones, to consider and reply to.)
Are your mailbox and TBR piles blooming?

Review Titles

I selected this as a "Read Now" through NetGalley because it sounds like a nice warm read:

Secrets at Maple Syrup Farm (Once in a Lifetime)
by Rebecca Raisin
"Maple sugar kisses...
Fall in love with Ashford, Connecticut in this dazzling and beautiful romance from bestselling author Rebecca Raisin."

Won

None.

Purchased

These are a two titles that I actually purchased:


A Town Called Dust: The Territory 1
by Justin Woolley
I am planning on reading book 2 from NetGalley so I decided to get book 1.
"Stranded in the desert, the last of mankind is kept safe by a large border fence ... Until the fence falls."

Hero (Epic Book 3)
by Lee Stephen
I loved books 1 and 2 so I had to continue the story!
"Redemption awaits. Will the fallen find their way?"

Free

Free Downloads from AudioFile SYNC 2015 for week Seven.



Rose Under Fire
by Elizabeth Wein
Read by Sasha Pick

Anne Frank Remembered
by Miep Gies, Alison Leslie Gold
Read by Barbara Rosenblat

Over the past week I added 44 free Kindle titles to my library. Titles found linked through Bookbub, Bookfun, Ereader News Today, Free Par-tay, Ignite Your Book, Inspired Reads, Pixel of Ink or Kindle ebooks.